Deadly dog virus on the rise

DOG owners are being urged not to skimp on vaccinations for their prized pets after a massive rise in the number of cases of a deadly disease were reported.

Worcestershire's dog warden service has already received 12 reports of Parvo cases in dogs across the county this year with one animal dying. There are usually just three or four cases reported over 12 months.

It is believed the increase is down to cash-strapped owners trying to save money by not paying for the Parvo vaccination, which needs to be administered each year. Dogs who catch the disease suffer from bloody diarrhoea, vomiting and lethargy.

Pip Singleton, Worcestershire's dog warden, said: "The vaccination for Parvo is not a luxury, it’s a lifesaver. What you don’t spend on the vaccination could see you spending ten times that amount on vet’s fees to treat your dog if they contract the disease which, as we have seen already, can be deadly.

"So please visit your vet and get your dog’s jabs and treatments up to date so they don’t have to suffer."